 |
|
Resources < Wildlife Habitats < Guide to Native Plants of Georgia for Wildlife < Rhododendron austrinum
Native Azaleas are some of the most graceful, peaceful, and charming flowers of the southeast. They are the epitome of the beauty of the southern wildflower, and remain one of the preferred plants for native landscaping in the south. They have a much higher tolerance for drought, sun, pests, and diseases than nonnative Azaleas. Their flowers are also more natural-looking in both shape and color. The fragrance of native Azalea flowers is all their own. They make wonderful cut flowers. They attract more large butterflies and moths than many other plants because the insects must have long enough mouthparts to sip from them. Hummingbirds will also territorially defend the flowers, delighting the native gardener with their chirps and iridescent colors.
Yellow Azalea looks best when planted en masse or combined with other native Azaleas. By planting more than one species of native Azalea, the blooming season is easily extended by up to a month. Other good companion plants include Sweetgum, Two-Winged Silverbell, Storax, Florida Anise, Viburnums, Titi, Itea, Sweetshrub, native ferns, Mountainlaurel, Blueberries, and Partridgeberry.
Wild collection of native azaleas can seriously compromise their genetic diversity and adaptability, and this practice is discouraged. Purchase plants from reputable nurseries that propagate the plants they sell.
Ericaceae (Heath)
Deciduous woody perennial with upright, slender stems and multiple trunks. Leaves are alternate, ovate, 2-5” long, medium-green in color, and covered in soft fuzz on both sides. Fragrant flowers are showy, trumpet-shaped, 1 ½-2” long and 1 ½” across, with pistils and stamens extending an extra inch beyond the petals. Color is golden yellow, often with reddish coloration at the base. They are borne in early to mid-spring in radially symmetric clusters at the ends of stems. Fruits are 1” long, tan, dry, and mature in early fall.
6-12 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide
Deciduous woody perennial with upright, slender stems and multiple trunks
Moderate
Full sun (if near water), otherwise partial sun to shade
The most important issues in the planting and care of native Azaleas are soil moisture and pH. Optimal sites should be near water. If not sited near water, amend the backfill with substantial organic matter such as rotted leaves or compost. Also, mulch with 2-4” pine straw, leaves, or wood chips to maintain moisture. Supplemental irrigation of at least 1” water per week during dry times such as summer may be necessary to grow native Azaleas in dry locations. They resist drought better when established after the first year. Maintain soil pH as acidic as possible, preferably below 5.0. Using pine straw as a mulch acidifies the soil, as does acid-loving plant fertilizers or adding sulfur. Hardy from USDA Zones 6-10.
The primary asset of native Azaleas are their magnificent trumpet-shaped flowers, whose powerful fragrances attract large, colorful butterflies as well as hummingbirds.
Native Azaleas are best for planting where their fragrance and flowers may be easily enjoyed. They make excellent plantings near patios, decks, porches, and within view of windows. They are highly visible in naturalistic or woodland landscapes. They thrive near moving or stationary water sources as specimens or groupings, and reflect well upon ponds. Combine with evergreen shrubs for year-round interest.
Flowers provide nectar to a wide variety of animals including Hummingbirds, Swallowtails, Gulf Fritillaries, Monarchs, Hairstreaks, Skippers, and bees. It is often used as a nesting site by songbirds.
Native to southern Alabama, Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle. Favored habitats include wooded bluffs, woodland stream banks, hammocks, and floodplains.
Combine seeds loosely with sphagnum moss and sprinkle lightly over a 2:1 perlite/peat mixture. Optimum temperatures for germination are 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit. Transplant seedlings to moist, acid soil with a high content of organic matter. Division of mature clumps is also possible.
Text by Kevin Tarner, Georgia Wildlife Federation
|
